Even though designer womenswear stores are aplenty in the city, exclusive outlets catering only to men are few and far between. Kora by Mumbai-based designers Nilesh Chhadva and Mitesh Sumbad aims to fill that void, with their recently launched outlet in the city which also happens to be their first store in the city. The store located at Banjara Hills reminds one of a vintage countryside bungalow. As we enter the outlet spanning 5,000 sq.ft, we spot soothing beige interiors with teak wood flooring and shelves.
Tailored to perfection
Pallavi Jain Pokarna, who owns of the city-based franchise along with her husband, Pratik, informs, “Our bespoke tailoring unit is one of the specialities and you can count on the brand to be a one-stop shop for men and boys between the ages of five-14 years.” We chatted in the luxe consultation room, where you can sit down with the family and have a discussion with the two in-house stylists in the store. You can meet them and they will help you find not only the perfect fit for your wedding day, but help you match colour and styles with your bride-to-be if you want. Not to forget the fact that the consultation room has a certain Rajasthani royal air. Traditional clothing is something that Kora excels at, shares Pallavi. But we start the walk through by first checking out the lush tailoring unit, surrounded by luxury fabrics like Scabal from Belgium, Italian Reda and British Thomas Mason. Although their artisans are based out of Mumbai, there’s a tailoring unit in Hyderabad for the made-to-measure orders.
Dashing in ethnic
As we glance through the hardwood walls, decked with sketches of debonair men in suits, we spot the ethnic section for men. Unlike the sombre greys and navy blues of the office wear section, this one offers jackets, sherwanis, Jodhpuris and kurtas in burnt orange, yellow and maroon. Their latest collection with asymmetrical silhouettes and minimal embroidery is inspired by the Moroccan culture and is available at the store. The best bit about the label is the father-son section which offers made-to-measure, matching occasion wear. One can also look out for their well-stocked accessory section. There are edgy cuff links in gold and silver, brooches, silk pocket squares, and shoes. The shoes by Kora are absolute showstoppers — be it their tan leather sandals or the juttis, it might be difficult to stop at one pair.
Rs 15,000 onwards. Pics: R Satish Babu